Travel Matters

Korčula Island ‘What’s life if not a fantasy’

travelmatters — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 10:20:49 +0000

TELL ME A STORY

WHO WAS MARCO POLO

Korčula Island
what’s life if not a fantasy

Not much can compete with nature. But Korčula can.

Korčula is a wonderful town on a wonderful island, perfect for a wonderful life. Or for a few wonderful days! You’ll be delighted by its simplicity, its gracefulness and its compactness. The sea here is warm, the sun is big, the beaches are calming, and there are around six for every inhabitant! You’ll drink indigenous wines, eat home-made food, cook the Žrnovo macaronis, visit Korčula’s Achipelago, make tea with olive leaves, taste traditional sweet pastries, walk through a pine forest, and to top it all – you’ll end up restored by our honey!

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Type:
guided private trip

Package:
4 nights in private accommodation



Meeting point:
Korčula Town

Dates:
any dates up to the 30th November 2021

Book now

GUIDED PRIVATE TRIP
4 NIGHTS WITH BREAKFAST IN PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
3 LUNCHES + 2 DINNERS
LOCAL TOUR GUIDE SERVICES
HEALING NATURE TOUR
HONEY TASTING
WINE TASTING
OLIVE OIL TASTING
TRADITIONAL SWEET PASTRIES TASTING
COOKING CLASS ON HOW TO PREPARE THE ŽRNOVO MACARONIS
HALF-DAY BOAT EXCURSION

YOU CAN CHOOSE ANY DATES UP TO THE 30th NOVEMBER 2021

This package starts with your arrival in Korčula Town and finishes with your departure from Korčula Town. Please note that we offer optional transfers from Dubrovnik or Split Airport, as well as pre- and post-trip optional extensions on all our package holidays.

This package includes 4 nights in private accomodation in the heart of Korčula Town:

PACKAGE 1. and 2.: ROOM FOR 2 PEOPLE
PACKAGE 3. and 4.: APARTMENT FOR 2 PEOPLE
PACKAGE 5. and 6.: APARTMENT FOR 3 PEOPLE
PACKAGE 7. and 8.: APARTMENT FOR 4 PEOPLE

PETS ARE WELCOME.

DATES & PRICES

All prices are per person.

Prices for the early or late season 2021:

PACKAGE 1.: 6.225,00 HRK (830 €)
PACKAGE 3.: 6.570,00 HRK (876 €)
PACKAGE 5.: 5.820,00 HRK (776 €)
PACKAGE 7.: 5.970,00 HRK (796 €)

Prices from the 1st July to the 31st August 2021:

PACKAGE 2.: 6.600,00 HRK (880 €)
PACKAGE 4.: 7.177,50 HRK (957 €)
PACKAGE 6.: 6.405,00 HRK (854 €)
PACKAGE 8.: 6.570,00 HRK (876 €)

ITINERARY

DAY 1
Please advise us how and at what time you’ll arrive, and we will meet you at the agreed place in Korčula Town. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your comfortable private accommodation, followed by some free time. In the evening, we’ll guide you to a restaurant in the Old Town where you’ll savour the first of many delicious meals that Korčula has to offer.

DAY 2
After breakfast, you’ll hook up with a local guide on a short hike around Korčula Town – our ‘Healing Nature Tour’. You’ll discover Korčula’s pine forest, with its Mediterranean undergrowth, plenty of gorgeous views over the Old Town, and at the end, you’ll meet a local beekeeper. After honey tasting, we’ll walk back to the town’s centre for a homely lunch. Later, in the afternoon, we’ll take a guided walking tour through the medieval streets of the Old Town which are laid out in a fishbone pattern. Marco Polo? Of course, you’ll see the birthplace of Marco Polo. If you don’t believe that he was born here, it’s fine by us. After you hear the story from your local guide, you’ll believe it anyway! The walking tour will end with some traditional sweet pastries tasting. The remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 3
Breakfast today prepares you for a full-day island tour with a local guide. Firstly, you’ll be transferred to the village of Žrnovo, which consists of four hamlets that are organised around cultivation plots. Your guide will take you along the stone-paved, stepped alleyways squeezed between old stone houses, and then, you’ll have a cooking class on how to prepare the Žrnovo macaronis. First, a short demonstration of how to shape the macaronis, then it’s time to put your apron on! After this hands-on cooking class, you’ll have your lunch, by which we mean, the one you have just cooked! In the afternoon, you’ll discover the west part of the island where you’ll first do some olive oil tasting, followed by some Pošip wine tasting. Full of joy, you’ll return to Korčula Town where the remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 4
After breakfast, you’ll embark with a local fisherman on a half-day boat excursion to visit Korčula’s Archipelago. You’ll stop at several islets, you’ll fish, swim, and sunbathe. Lunch will be served on the boat and then we’ll return to Korčula Town where the afternoon is at your own leisure. In the evening, there’s a short transfer to a rustic tavern outside the town for a finger-licking good dinner.

DAY 5
After breakfast, sadly, it’s time to check out and say our farewells. We’ll walk you to the ferry, catamaran or bus, and wish you a pleasant trip. As you start to leave the island behind, the view of Korčula Town will open up, and we’re sure you’ll want to turn around and come back, there and then…

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT TIMETABLE

Please only pay the deposit when you have been invited to do so by Travel Matters – putovanja na šestu. Please note that normally the deposit is non-refundable. But things can change these days, and the COVID-19 pandemic is certainly not a normal thing. So, we ask you to pay the deposit as normal at the time of booking, but now the deposit is fully refundable in the event of COVID-19 complications.

DEPOSIT: 20% of the quoted price – at the time of booking
BALANCE DUE – 60 days before the date of your trip

The balance due should be made at least 60 days prior to departure, unless you are making a late booking.
The latest notification containing the names and the contacts of your local guides will be sent to you 6 days before the start of your trip.

If you have to cancel your trip due to the COVID-19 pandemic, or if we have to cancel your trip due to the COVID-19 pandemic, don’t worry, please stay home, take care, and you’ll receive a full, immediate refund.
We’ll keep our fingers crossed that you get to take your trip and that we get to welcome you here.

When we receive your booking form we will check the availability of your package and your party details with you. Your booking is confirmed by us on receipt of the deposit. The confirmation of your booking constitutes a contract, which is your commitment to pay for the whole package. The price quoted at the time of booking is guaranteed for your departure date and is inclusive of tax and delivery costs. Should you wish to cancel your trip for reasons other than the COVID-19 pandemic, you may do so by writing to us. If you cancel, you will be liable to pay the following fees: 15 days to 29 days before your trip starts – 50% of the total price; 0 days to 14 days before your trip starts – 100% of the total price.

BOOKING FOR THE PACKAGE ‘KORČULA ISLAND’ CLOSES ON 1st JUNE 2021. (or before if all accommodation capacity has been booked).

This package includes short stories

‘The Story of the Unknown Island’ is about a man who knocked at the king’s door and said:
– “Give me a boat!”
– “What for?” – the king asked.
– “To go in search of the unknown island.”
– “Ha-ha!” – the king laughed. “There are no unknown island left. They are all on the map.”
Later on, the king gave him a boat, and the man discovered Korčula Island.

PACKAGE INCLUDES

• 4 nights with breakfast in private accommodation in the heart of Korčula Town
• 3 lunches + 2 dinners
• local English-speaking guide for the sightseeing tour in Korčula
• traditional sweet pastries tasting
• entrance ticket to All Saints’ Brotherhood
• hike of three hours’ duration: ‘Healing Nature Tour’
• honey tasting
• full-day island tour with a local English-speaking guide
• cooking class on how to prepare the Žrnovo macaronis
• wine tasting
• olive oil tasting
• half-day boat excursion
• assistance service on your arrival and departure

PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE

• flights or other transport from your home base to Korčula Town and the return
• drinks with the included meals
• lunch on day 1 and day 5
• dinner on day 2 and day 3
• entrance fees which are not stated as included
• personal expenses
• insurance policy

Korčula is not a miniature Dubrovnik

The historical nucleus of Korčula Town sits on a tiny promontory jutting out into the Pelješac Channel. A recurring arrangement of two houses, one street, two houses, one street… stamps a pattern of the town. Towards the west, the straight streets plunge down to the sea, whilst towards the east, they are curved to protect the town from winds. Planning wise, it’s all about the streets being laid out in a fishbone design. Carved out of local limestone, mostly in the 15th and 16th centuries, the Old Town is a harmonious example of the Gothic-Renaissance whole. The most marvellous creation of that period is St. Mark’s Cathedral which rises on the highest point of the promontory…
When you walk through the town, masterfully chiselled elements of architectural decoration are watching you wherever you look – coats of arms of local noble families, human figures, mascarons with bulging eyes… In other words, the fantastical world of medieval bestiaries populates Korčula’s facades, balconies, doorposts…
In times past, located as it was, in a strategic position, and encircled by high walls, Korčula soon grew into a medieval town affording pleasant living, whilst developing stonemasonry, shipbuilding and commerce. Today there is a promenade that stretches all along the perimeter of the ancient walls, with wonderful views over the sea and Korčula’s Archipelago. Here you’ll walk, and then sit in the shade. We’ll explain how Korčula formed part of the Republic of Venice, and how Marco Polo, a celebrated Venetian, came to be born in Korčula. You may not believe it. It’s all right. Once you hear our story, you’ll change your mind.

The ancient Greek name for Korčula Island was Korkyra Melaina – Black

In the 4th century BC the Greeks founded their colony on Korčula Island regaling it with the epithet ‘black’ – after its luxuriant coniferous forest. The island is still thickly forested with Mediterranean vegetation today.
This package includes our ‘Healing Nature Tour’, a hike through a forest with gorgeous views over the Old Town. You’ll bond with nature, you’ll intoxicate yourself with oxygen, and you’ll do something that your health will thank you for. The hike is not demanding, and it will be led by a tourist guide who is a nature enthusiast. In the forest, on a hill, you’ll be surprised by the round Forteca tower, built at the beginning of the 19th century by the British. It was constructed on the model of the towers of Corsica. A little further on, you’ll discover Naplov, a clearing formely used for collecting rainwater. The 101 step ascent to St. Antony Hill, is lined with cypresses, and will reward you with a beautiful view over Korčula’s Archipelago. The icing, or rather the honey on the cake will be meeting a local beekeeper, where you’ll peek into a full beehive, and hear about the sweet curiosities of the bees’ life. Of course, you’ll get to know how honey is made, what propolis is, and who royal jelly is produced for…

Korčula’s wines will give you wings

Pošip wine is the first white wine in Croatia allocated a denomination of origin. It is made from a native grape variety of the same name, which is grown in Korčula’s vineyards in the villages of Čara and Smokvica. In other words, Pošip is Korčulan.
This package includes a full-day island tour with a local tourist guide. You’ll meet Korčula’s winemakers, you’ll learn about the regulations laid down in the Statute of the Town and the Island, which were made to protect the island’s viticulture, you’ll get to know what makes Korčula’s wines special, and finally you’ll enjoy their characteristic tastes.
In the village of Žrnovo, you’ll have a cooking class on how to prepare the Žrnovo macaronis, an authentic dish that was awarded the ‘Croatian Island Product’ label. In other words, you’ll learn how to cook a local speciality which was served in the past only for special occasions. We’ll show you how to make the dough and how to roll out the macaronis, and then… roll your sleeves up!
After lunch, we’ll take you to famous and not so famous coves, we’ll show you pebbly and sandy beaches, you’ll see where we play football, and what the pitch for the game of boules looks like…
At the western end of the island, you’ll find out that the streets don’t have names, and that Vela Luka is the birthplace of Oliver Dragojević, the biggest of the biggest singers in the world. Never mind if you’ve never heard his songs. We all know every one of them off by heart…
Finally, we’ll take you to the olive oil tasting and you’ll sample some salted fish.
After you get to know the whole of Korčula Island, you’ll come to the conclusion that the best thing about Korčula is the Korčulans themselves.

If you want to see an island, you have to leave it

The name we gave to Korčula’s Archipelago, a group of nineteen islets that lie in the Pelješac Channel, is Škoji – in the plural. Škoj – in the singular, is Vrnik, the only inhabited islet. The residents of Škoj are called Škojari. One hundred and fifty years ago, a census recorded one hundred and seventy residents on Škoj. They even had a school. Forty years ago, there were fifty five residents. Today there are just three.
This package includes a private boat for the visit around Korčula’s Archipelago. You’ll navigate amongst islets and feel like a true sea dog. You’ll see abandoned quarries where in the past stone was quarried for the construction of Korčula and Dubrovnik. You’ll put ashore on Badija, the largest islet in Croatia. You’ll swim, dive, and cast a fishing line. Have you ever had lunch on boat? With us, you will.
And keeping the best until last – Korčula has its own sweet delights called Klašuni. Their filling contains all the island’s richness of flavour. You’ll taste them! We’ll take you to the local patisserie, you’ll meet a local pastry chef, and you’ll relish sampling all the cakes there.

Six reasons why you should choose this trip

1. You’ll heal your heart, your body and your soul, away from everything and everyone. Korčula has never been an over-publicised holiday destination.
2. You’ll get rid of any doubts about Marco Polo. He really was not from China.
3. You’ll get to know Korčula as it is, without embellishment. And you are bound to conclude that it couldn’t be more beautiful. You know the story – when God was walking around carrying a bag full of beauty, the bag suddenly got torn, and Korčula was covered in the contents.
4. You’ll stop saying that Korčula is Dubrovnik on a smaller scale. The resemblance is obvious, but that’s because Dubrovnik was built with the stone from Korčula. What’s more, master stonemasons from Korčula had a hand in the construction of Dubrovnik. So, if you like to make comparisons, and you like to be precise, it’s better to say that Dubrovnik is Korčula on a larger scale.
5. We’ve reserved a table for you in hand-picked restaurants and taverns. The package includes home-made food. You can choose between meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan menus. We catch fish ourselves, we make olive oil, we grow our own vegetables, and we’re not boasting, but it’s true – we cook with love.
6. It’s up to you to choose the dates of your trip, and we’ll organise each and every trip individually. This is your private package, in other words, we do not merge groups in any parts of the package. Or, let’s put it like this – you’ll have local guides all to yourself.

Hotels on this trip are not hotels

This package holiday includes 4 nights with breakfast in private accommodation in the centre of Korčula Town. By ‘centre’ we mean a maximum ten minutes on foot from the historic nucleus of the town, and a stone’s throw away from the sea. In Korčula Town, you’ll find all facilities at hand, and if you are planning to come by car, the whole island will be within your reach.
For accommodation, you can choose between a private room for 2 people, a private apartment for 2 people, a private apartment for 3 people and a private apartment for 4 people. All units are categorised 3*, fully furnished, modern, comfortable and pleasantly decorated. Rooms include an electric kettle for heating water, while apartments have a well furnished kitchen that gives you the option of eating in. Also, you’ll have your own entrance and free WiFi. Some units include a parking place. Please advise us at the time of booking whether you’ll need a parking place or not. We’ll send you a detailed description and photos of your hotel that is not a hotel.
Whenever you come, you will be more than welcome!

OUR TOURS

Sightseeing Tours
Sightrunning Tours
Hiking Tours
Excursions
Package Holidays
Hiking Holidays

About Us
Terms & Conditions
COVID-19 Travel & Booking Information

Contact

Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
info@travelmatters.hr

TRAVEL MATTERS putovanja na šestu

Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
Terms & Conditions
COVID-19 Travel & Booking Information

LEGAL INFO

MB: 97803677
OIB: 33044834575
IBAN: HR5024840081135050187
SWIFT: RZBHHR2X

Contact

Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
+33 6 19 75 60 08
info@travelmatters.hr

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The post Korčula Island ‘What’s life if not a fantasy’ appeared first on Travel Matters.

Mljet Island ‘The return to paradise’

travelmatters — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 09:09:04 +0000

TELL ME A STORY

WHO WAS ODYSSEUS

Mljet Island
the return to paradise

Book now

Mljet is an island where it’s possible to listen to the silence. And everything there is green – the forest, the sea… and the silence.

The western part of Mljet Island, which was declared a national park in 1960, takes most of the credit for the island being dubbed the ‘green island’. 90% of the total land area of the park is covered in forests of holm oaks and Aleppo pines. Thus, on this island, there is no lack of shade. You’ll sleep a stone’s throw away from the sea, within the national park, you’ll eat freshly prepared local food, you’ll have a swim in the green lakes, you’ll take a boat ride and feel as if you’re sailing through a forest, and what’s more – we’ll take you to the place from where the vistas give a hug to the whole of paradise!
By the way, on Mljet Island it takes the whole year for summer to end, and then it just starts again since it never ends in the first place. In other words, Mljet’s summer is a stunner.

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Type:
guided private trip

Package:
4 nights in private accommodation



Meeting point:
Pomena

Dates:
any dates up to the 30th November 2021

Book now

GUIDED PRIVATE TRIP
4 NIGHTS IN PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
4 BREAKFASTS + 4 DINNERS
ENTRANCE TICKETS TO THE MLJET NATIONAL PARK
LOCAL TOUR GUIDE SERVICES
EXCEPTIONAL MLJET HIKE

YOU CAN CHOOSE ANY DATES UP TO THE 30th NOVEMBER 2021

This package starts with your arrival in Pomena, a tiny hamlet at the western tip of Mljet Island, and finishes with your departure from Pomena. Please note that we offer optional transfers from Dubrovnik or Split Airport, as well as pre- and post-trip optional extensions on all our package holidays.

This package includes 4 nights in private accomodation in the heart of Mljet National Park:

PACKAGE 1. and 2.: ROOM FOR 2 PEOPLE
PACKAGE 3. and 4.: APARTMENT FOR 2 PEOPLE
PACKAGE 5. and 6.: APARTMENT FOR 3 PEOPLE
PACKAGE 7. and 8.: APARTMENT FOR 4 PEOPLE

PETS ARE WELCOME.

DATES & PRICES

All prices are per person.

Prices for the early or late season 2021:

PACKAGE 1.: 4.192,50 HRK (559 €)
PACKAGE 3.: 4.365,00 HRK (582 €)
PACKAGE 5.: 4.395,00 HRK (586 €)
PACKAGE 7.: 4.200,00 HRK (560 €)

Prices from the 1st July to the 31st August 2021:

PACKAGE 2.: 4.717,50 HRK (629 €)
PACKAGE 4.: 4.890,00 HRK (652 €)
PACKAGE 6.: 4.920,00 HRK (656 €)
PACKAGE 8.: 4.725,00 HRK (630 €)

ITINERARY

DAY 1
Please advise us how and at what time you’ll arrive, and we will meet you at the agreed place in Pomena, a tiny hamlet at the western tip of Mljet Island. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your comfortable private accommodation, followed by some free time. In the evening, in your guesthouse, you’ll savour the first of many delicious meals that Mljet Island has to offer.

DAY 2
After breakfast, you’ll hook up with a local guide on a hike through the national park. You’ll discover Mljet’s pine forest, with its Mediterranean undergrowth, the Great and the Small Lakes, plenty of gorgeous views from the Montokuc viewpoint, and at the end, you’ll take a boat to the St. Mary’s Islet. On this hiking tour, you’ll learn about the formation of the lakes, the cultural heritage and the history of the island. You’ll find out why they are no vipers, and why there are wild boars. And your guide will divulge the legend that the locals cherish the most. Are you all ears? In the evening, the dinner will be served in your guesthouse.

DAY 3
Breakfast. This day is at your own leisure. Dinner.

DAY 4
Breakfast. This day is at your own leisure. Dinner.

DAY 5
After breakfast, sadly, it’s time to check out and say our farewells. We’ll walk you to the catamaran or bus, and wish you a pleasant trip. We know that Mljet’s summer painted your heart green, but do you know that a green heart will want to come back? Take care and see you!

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT TIMETABLE

DEPOSIT: 20% of the quoted price – at the time of booking
BALANCE DUE – 60 days before the date of your trip

The balance due should be made at least 60 days prior to departure, unless you are making a late booking.
The latest notification containing the name and the contact of your local guide will be sent to you 6 days before the start of your trip.

BOOKING FOR THE PACKAGE ‘MLJET ISLAND’ CLOSES ON 1st JUNE 2021. (or before if all accommodation capacity has been booked).

This package includes short stories

When the Roman army disembarked on Mljet Island, the Illyrians, a native population, withdrew into the island’s interior. The Roman commander, attracted by a dense forest, went for a walk, but his path soon came to an end. Surprised by the Small Lake which spread out in front of him, the commander stopped short to observe this miracle of nature. ‘Where am I?’ – he asked himself. Then, suddenly, he spotted an Aleppo pine leaning over the lake, as far as it could, its branches dangling into the water. Curious, the commander went down to the shore. He stared at the branches, and the branches stared back at him. And suddenly he noticed a nest! Seriously, a bird’s nest was nestling on one of the branches! The commander seized his sword, swung at the branch, and cut it off. Then he pulled the branch out of the water, and as the branch came out onto the shore, a beautiful conch appeared on it. The nest and the conch – the commander was delighted. Immediately he gave an order:
– Send me the fastest soldier!
The fastest soldier came, quick as a flash. The commander handed him the branch, and the words he declared at that moment still resound around Mljet today:
– Take this branch to Rome, and tell to Caesar that I’ve found paradise on Earth!

PACKAGE INCLUDES

• 4 nights in private accommodation in the heart of the Mljet National Park
• 4 breakfasts + 4 dinners
• entrance tickets to the Mljet National Park
• local English-speaking guide for the Mljet National Park hiking tour
• assistance service on your arrival and departure

PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE

• flights or other transport from your home base to Pomena and the return
• drinks with the included dinners
• lunches
• personal expenses
• insurance policy

Inlets or lakes

Mljet is an island with an extremely indented coastline. It stretches south of the Pelješac Peninsula, with length of 37 kilometres, whilst its average width is 3 kilometres. With such an elongated shape, it covers an area of 100 km².
The national park encompasses the western third of the island, as well as a 500 metre wide coastal belt around it. It seems as if the sea here has wormed its way into the island, and then the island captured it, creating first the Great Lake, and then the Small Lake. In other words, the Small Lake is linked to the Great Lake, and the Great Lake is linked to the open sea. The lakes are in fact karstic depressions inundated by the sea, but their landscape resembles that of lakes so much that the people called them lakes, and with good reason. So, it’s all about saltwater lakes.
Dense pine forests descend to the very shore of the lakes. When you walk around the Small Lake, you’ll have the feeling that the forest comes here to take a swim. You can make a full circle around both the lakes. There is a shady path around the Small Lake of 2600 metres in length. A wide and paved promenade, 9240 metres long, goes around the Great Lake, which is ideal for a bike ride. Let us explain better – the Great Bridge was built recently across the Soline Straits which link the Great Lake and the open sea. You’ll cross it if you want to make a full circle around the Great Lake. Just a few years ago, it wasn’t possible – there was no bridge. In 1958, the Soline Straits were enlarged and deepened to enable larger boats to pass into the Great Lake. At that moment, the old Great Bridge was demolished. The new Great Bridge saw the light of day in 2016.

In ancient times, the name for Mljet was Melita – a honeyed island

On Mljet Island, no remains of the Greek settlement have been found. But probably the ancient Greeks did navigate through the Mljet Channel, using the island’s coves as a shelter from adverse weather conditions. Nevertheless, we are indebted to the Greeks for the most ancient name for Mljet – Melita. Melita translates as ‘a bee’ in English, from the Greek mélitta, mélissa. Presumably, on Mljet Island, the bees have always existed, due to the luxuriant vegetation. It’s an interesting fact that the same name was given to Malta Island as well. Later, a Latin term was added to the islands’ names to make it easier to distinguish them: Melita Illyricum was used for Mljet Island, and Melita Africanum for Malta Island. Anyway, on Mljet Island you’ll find honey as a typical souvenir.
This package holiday includes a hiking tour, which is the best way to get to know the national park inside out. We’ll adapt the hike to suit your interests, but we would be the happiest guides if you agree to climb with us up the Montokuc Hill (253 m), within the national park. The path meanders through a forest, opening here and there to wonderful views. The icing on the cake – from the top, the lakes will appear as if in the palm of your hand! Probably, you will not be able to stand the view for too long – it’s simply stunning! Nature always heals us, but Mljet is too beautiful to be real! Below Montokuc lie the Soline Straits, and in the distance you’ll see the islands of Lastovo and Korčula. Also, you’ll discover how close to Mljet Island the Pelješac Peninsula stands, it seems to watch its back…
From the Montokuc viewpoint, we’ll descend to the shore of the Great Lake, and there, we’ll take a boat to St. Mary’s Islet. In the 12th century, the Benedictine Monastery was built on the islet. During the time of the Republic of Dubrovnik, the monastery was enlarged, during the time of Yugoslavia, it was turned into a hotel, and today it emerges from the green of Mljet’s vegetation as a Renaissance monumental residence…

Six reasons why you should choose this trip

1. Mljet’s shades of green will heal your heart, your body and your soul. What’s more, you’ll take a swim in a green sea! It’s warm, and due to an inflow of fresh water, it’s less salty in spring. In fact, you won’t be able to stop paddling!
2. Mljet Island numbers about one thousand inhabitants. You’ll feel as if you’re in a deserted paradise. And imagine this – distances on this island are a little bit different: 2 metres in reality seem like 200 metres in Mljet’s world.
3. The package includes home-made food. You can choose between meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan menus. We catch fish ourselves, we make olive oil, we grow our own vegetables, and we’re not boasting, but it’s true – we cook with love.
4. You’ll hike with us and you won’t get lost. We’ll adapt the hike to suit your pace and interests. We’ll show you a miracle of nature and a miracle of cultural heritage. And to top it all – we’ll regale you with stories!
5. You’ll find out what Odysseus was doing for seven years on Mljet Island. And he didn’t age a single day.
6. It’s up to you to choose the dates of your trip, and we’ll organise each and every trip individually. This is your private package, in other words, we do not merge groups in any parts of the package. Or, let’s put it like this – you’ll have a local guide just for yourself.

Hotels on this trip are not hotels

This package holiday includes 4 nights with breakfast in private accommodation in Pomena, a tiny hamlet at the western tip of Mljet Island. Pomena numbers about forty residents, but Pomena also has the only hotel on the island – the hotel Odysseus. In Pomena, you can walk from one end to the other in ten minutes. In the centre, you’ll see a waterfront on which a public catamaran ferry puts ashore to link Mljet with Dubrovnik and Korčula. In Pomena, there is a small grocery store, a souvenir shop and several restaurants. Pomena is an ideal starting point for exploring the national park. For example, to reach the Small Lake from Pomena, you’ll need ten minutes on foot.
For accommodation, you can choose between a private room for 2 people, a private apartment for 2 people, a private apartment for 3 people and a private apartment for 4 people. All units are categorised 3*, fully furnished, modern, comfortable and pleasantly decorated. Rooms include an electric kettle for heating water, while apartments have a well furnished kitchen that gives you the option of eating in. Also, you’ll have your own entrance and free WiFi. Some units include a parking place. Please advise us at the time of booking whether you’ll need a parking place or not. We’ll send you a detailed description and photos of your hotel that is not a hotel.
Whenever you come, you will be more than welcome!

OUR TOURS

Sightseeing Tours
Sightrunning Tours
Hiking Tours
Excursions
Package Holidays
Hiking Holidays

About Us
Terms & Conditions
COVID-19 Travel & Booking Information

Contact

Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
info@travelmatters.hr

TRAVEL MATTERS putovanja na šestu

Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
Terms & Conditions
COVID-19 Travel & Booking Information

LEGAL INFO

MB: 97803677
OIB: 33044834575
IBAN: HR5024840081135050187
SWIFT: RZBHHR2X

Contact

Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
+33 6 19 75 60 08
info@travelmatters.hr

DESIGN WITH by Apropo marketing

The post Mljet Island ‘The return to paradise’ appeared first on Travel Matters.

2 Islands coastal hikes in Croatia

travelmatters — Tue, 29 Dec 2020 12:10:15 +0000

HIKING HOLIDAYS

MLJET + KORČULA

2 Islands
coastal hikes in Croatia

Book now

When God got around to sharing natural beauty around, the islands in the Adriatic were sumptuously endowed.

This multifaceted trip is like an intriguing puzzle consisting of various pieces fitting seamlessly together. From off-the-beaten-track hiking opportunities, exceptionally beautiful seascapes, stunning historic towns with their rich culture and tradition, to delicious local food, joyful wine and graceful accommodation – we’ve decided to spoil you rotten.



Type:
guided group trip

Package:
7 nights itinerary



Meeting Point:
Dubrovnik Airport



Price:
from 19.410,00 HRK (2588 €)

Book now

GUIDED GROUP TRIP
2 NIGHTS IN PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
4 NIGHTS IN A BOUTIQUE HOTEL
1 NIGHT IN A LUXURY HOTEL
6 EXCEPTIONAL HIKES
LOCALLY GROWN FOOD
MLJET NATIONAL PARK
KORČULA + DUBROVNIK

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED

This trip starts with your arrival at Dubrovnik Airport and finishes with your departure from Dubrovnik Airport. Please note that we offer pre- and post-trip optional extensions on all our hiking holidays.

DATES & PRICES

All dates are subject to availability.
All prices are per person.

Sun 11 Apr 2021 – Sun 18 Apr 2021
double occupancy 19.410,00 HRK (2588 €)
single room supplement 4.725,00 HRK (630 €)

Sun 2 May 2021 – Sun 9 May 2021
double occupancy 21.435,00 HRK (2858 €)
single room supplement 6.375,00 HRK (850 €)

Sun 30 May 2021 – Sun 6 Jun 2021
double occupancy 22.267,50 HRK (2969 €)
single room supplement 7.125,00 HRK (950 €)

Sun 5 Sep 2021 – Sun 12 Sep 2021
double occupancy 24.360,00 HRK (3248 €)
single room supplement 8.925,00 HRK (1190 €)

Sun 19 Sep 2021 – Sun 26 Sep 2021
double occupancy 24.360,00 HRK (3248 €)
single room supplement 8.925,00 HRK (1190 €)

Sun 17 Oct 2021 – Sun 24 Oct 2021
double occupancy 21.435,00 HRK (2858 €)
single room supplement 6.375,00 HRK (850 €)

ITINERARY

DAY 1
Please advise us of your flight schedule, and we will meet you at Dubrovnik Airport. You need to arrive by 5.00 pm at the latest. Upon arrival, we’ll be transferred to Ston, a tiny town at the head of the Pelješac Peninsula, just an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik. Check in. Welcome dinner.

DAY 2
After breakfast, we’ll check out and embark on our first tour around the fortified town of Ston. We’ll clamber up the walls which extend from one side of the Pelješac Peninsula all the way to the other. You’ll be bombarded by stunning views, and you’ll also exercise your leg muscles. There will be time to recover during the short transfer to Prapratno Bay from where we’ll take a ferry to Mljet Island. Another short transfer takes us to the village of Babino Polje, in the middle of the island. From here, we’ll take a short hike to see the Odysseus Cave. Transfer to Polače, a seaside hamlet with Roman ruins, where we’ll enjoy a homely, late lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll hike to the Great Lake and visit St. Mary’s Islet. The hike will end in Pomena, a seaside hamlet at the western tip of the island. After checking into our private accomodation for the night, we’ll tuck into a fisherman’s dinner.

DAY 3
Breakfast. After check out, we begin our hike to Veliki Gradac Hill and the Montokuc viewpoint. The view from Montokuc takes in the whole National Park. Lunch will be in a restaurant located on the Soline Straits. Suitably replenished, we’ll hike along the Lakes to Pomena from where, in the late afternoon, we catch the catamaran to Korčula Town. Time to check into our boutique hotel and enjoy a relaxing dinner.

DAY 4
After breakfast, we take a short transfer to Žrnovo village from where we’ll start today’s circular hike to the jagged southeastern shore of Korčula Island. We’ll reach some of the most remote beaches on the island, before having lunch in a tavern that appears out of nowhere. In the afternoon, it’s a hike uphill amongst dense vegetation, and then transfer to an organic farm for honey tasting. Return to the hotel where you’ll have some free time. Then it’s a short transfer to a rustic tavern outside the town for our evening meal.

DAY 5
Breakfast today is followed by a boat transfer across the channel from Korčula Town to Kučište, a small village on the Pelješac Peninsula. Here we’ll take a hike to the Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of the Angels. Most of the time, the walk is at an altitude of 150 metres with stunning panoramic views before it descends into Orebić, a town at the foot of Mount St. Elias. From Orebić, we’ll continue by boat to visit Korčula’s Archipelago. We’ll lunch in a restaurant on a small islet. Return to Korčula by boat for some traditional sweet pastries tasting. Having satisfied our sweet craving, we’ll transfer back to the hotel for some free time. In the early evening, we’ll take a guided walking tour through the medieval streets of the Old Town which are laid out in a fishbone pattern. Dinner in the Old Town.

DAY 6
Breakfast today prepares us for a 30-minute transfer to Blato, an intriguing inland settlement where the streets have numbers instead of names. From here it’s a hike up to Kom Peak, the second highest peak on Korčula Island. From the top, you’ll get a 360° view of all the nearby islands. After a break, we’ll descend through the pine forest to Blato for lunch in a local tavern. After lunch we’ll visit the Barilo ethnographic museum where we’ll also do some tasting of local brandies. A short transfer to Smokvica village for Pošip wine tasting. Joyful, we’ll return to Korčula Town where the remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 7
We’ll check out after breakfast then transfer to Dubrovnik. Here we’ll take a normal walking tour with a local guide, although nothing can be described as normal in Dubrovnik. We’ll have lunch in a restaurant in the Old Town, followed by a tour of the Dubrovnik Walls. Later in the afternoon, our hike will take us to the top of Mount Srđ which towers above Dubrovnik as a natural rampart. From the top, the stunning view stretches as far as the eye can see. To descend, we’ll make a loop, and you’ll see the Old Town from several different angles. Then it’s a short walk to the hotel for our final night’s check in. The evening in Dubrovnik is at your own leisure.

DAY 8
After breakfast, sadly, it’s time to check out and say our farewells. You will be transferred to Dubrovnik Airport where we will wish you a pleasant flight, and hope to see you again in the not-too-distant future. Cheerio!

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT TIMETABLE

Please note that normally the deposit is non-refundable. But things can change these days, and the COVID-19 pandemic surely is not a normal thing. So, we ask you to pay the deposit as normal at the time of booking, but now the deposit is fully refundable in the event of COVID-19 complications.

DEPOSIT: 20% of the quoted price – at the time of booking
BALANCE DUE – 60 days before the date of your hiking trip

The balance due should be made at least 60 days prior to departure, unless you are making a late booking.
The latest notification containing the name and the contact of your hiking guide will be sent to you 6 days before the start of your trip.

Your booking is confirmed by us on receipt of the deposit. The confirmation of your booking constitutes a contract, which is your commitment to pay for the whole hiking holiday. The price quoted at the time of booking is guaranteed for your departure date and is inclusive of tax and delivery costs. Should you wish to cancel your trip for reasons other than the COVID-19 pandemic, you may do so by writing to us. If you cancel, you will be liable to pay the following fees: 30 days to 45 days before your trip starts – 40% of the total price; 22 days to 29 days before your trip starts – 60% of the total price; 15 days to 21 days before your trip starts – 80% of the total price; 9 days to 14 days before your trip starts – 90% of the total price; 0 days to 8 days before your trip starts – 100% of the total price.

Minimum number of participants: 6 people
Maximum number of participants: 16 people

This trip includes Dubrovnik: the Pearl of the Adriatic

Picture yourself standing in the middle of the main street in Dubrovnik Old Town. It’s one of the most picturesque street on the planet, commonly known as Stradun. Suddenly, you’ll be struck by the shininess of its limestone slabs. And you’ll probably find it difficult to believe, but they’re so shiny your hiking shoes could see their faces in them!

HIKING PACKAGE INCLUDES

• transfers from and to Dubrovnik Airport, and all transfers in-between as in the itinerary
• accommodation for 2 nights in a private room or apartment
• accommodation for 4 nights in a charming boutique hotel
• accommodation for 1 night in a luxury hotel
• daily breakfast
• 6 lunches and 5 dinners in hand-picked restaurants and taverns
• honey tasting
• wine tasting
• traditional sweet pastries tasting
• entrance ticket to the Walls of Ston
• entrance ticket to the Mljet National Park
• entrance ticket to the Barilo ethnographic museum
• entrance ticket to the Walls of Dubrovnik
• private boat for the Korčula’s Archipelago visit
• local English-speaking hiking guide with you throughout the trip
• local English-speaking guide for the sightseeing tour in Korčula
• local English-speaking guide for the sightseeing tour in Dubrovnik

HIKING PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE

• flights or other transport from your home base to Dubrovnik Airport
• lunch on day 1 and day 8
• dinner on day 6, day 7 and day 8
• drinks with the included meals
• personal expenses
• travel insurance

If you are a keen hiker in search of cultural discovery, hop on for this island hopping experience!

You’ll hike on the forested islands that bask lazily in sunshine: Mljet Island, the western third of which is protected as a national park, and Korčula Island which the ancient Greeks named ‘black’ because of its dense and dark forests. The glittering green of the pine forest, the dazzlingly white of wave-sculpted cliffs and the shimmering blue of the Adriatic are the colours these islands have in abundance.
While Mljet Island is an extremely quiet island, Korčula Island seems to be bursting with people and life by comparison. However much each is a world apart, with its own character and charisma, with this hiking trip you’ll draw a parallel between them, trying to figure out the reasons behind their distinct identities.
Each day, you’ll take part in a guided hike on quiet trails, with the Adriatic Sea as a constant background. All hikes are graded ‘moderate’, so you should have some hiking experience and know what it is like to hike for up to six hours. You’ll hike a total of seventy kilometres, which are split over six days of hiking, with some days being a mere six kilometres and others being approximately fourteen kilometres. You’ll hike light, carrying only a daypack with what you need for the day. Lunches are organised in family-owned taverns, in the middle of amazing landscapes, or in charming restaurants with a story to tell. The great emphasis is placed on locally grown food, culinary specialities reflecting local history, and seafood dishes. Please advise us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Hiking topped off with strolling in medieval walled towns

This hiking holiday will give you the opportunity to plunge into an oasis of peace and quiet, lush vegetation and crystal clear blue seas. At the same time, you’ll discover that this oasis, which is the southernmost region of Croatia, also offers the features of a fantasy world. You probably won’t stumble across castles and imaginary creatures, but honestly, you might meet our elves which usually look like butterflies. Our forests are enchanted, but only because you’ll be enchanted by hiking here. And when the silence becomes the sound of a turquoise sea lapping the shore, your doubts will evaporate and you’ll know that your holiday is about to turn magical!
What’s absolutely tangible in this fantasy world is that you are going to visit medieval walled towns: Ston, Korčula and Dubrovnik. Your strolls along these surprisingly preserved architectural wonders will be closely modelled on a historical reality. The view of their streets, tightly packed with Gothic and Renaissance palaces, and the view of their roofs stretching to the horizon, that kind of view could never get old. It is a one of a kind. And it is always a ‘mamma mia’ view.
It’s little wonder that the city of Dubrovnik served as the filming location for many famous scenes of a fantasy drama television series known as Game of Thrones.

DOWNLOAD YOUR HIKING HOLIDAY FULL ITINERARY here.

Six reasons why you should choose this trip

1. There is literally nowhere else on earth like the islands in the Adriatic. Their scenic footpaths, hidden beaches, timeless villages and traditions, along with a laid-back vibe and fabulous medieval towns, will sweep you off your feet. If hiking hasn’t already done it.
2. You can take a dip in the most beautiful sea in the world. And after it, you will never again want to swim anywhere else.
3. You’ll explore one of Croatia’s eight national parks. For the other seven, please come back some other time!
4. The food – you cannot rate it highly enough. As the saying goes, the way to love is through the stomach. And with our wines, it will go swimmingly.
5. Your local guides are passionate about what they do. They are knowledgeable, engaging, attentive, and funny. You can ask them everything. But not everything requires a response.
6. Last but not least, you’ll get to chase the sunrises and sunsets. Here, it’s like a wedding in which the sun and the sea get married.

Hotels of character that will put a smile on your face even way after your holiday

This trip combines hiking with high quality services and outstanding accommodation. That means that a day spent hiking will finish in stylish comfort.
Upon your arrival, you’ll be transferred to Ston, a tiny town at the head of the Pelješac Peninsula. There, you’ll stay in a family-run hotel situated in an ancient mansion. Its recently renovated 4-star rooms feature modern furniture with an antique touch.
The next day, on Mljet Island, you’ll stay in a private accommodation, in the heart of the national park. Each private room and apartment has been hand-picked for exceptional comfort and a warm welcome.
On Korčula Island, you’ll stay for four nights in Tara’s Lodge, a waterfront boutique hotel, just a few kilometres away from Korčula’s famous medieval town.
The accommodation for the last night is what we call the icing on the cake: Villa Dubrovnik, a graceful 5-star hotel, only a 15-minute walk away from Dubrovnik Old Town.

TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR HOTELS >>

TARA'S LODGE - BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Tara’s Lodge is the finest boutique hotel in Korčula. The hotel enjoys a beachfront position, literally on the edge of a fine pebble beach, in a cosy residential bay, just a few kilometres away from Korčula Old Town.
A contemporary style with clean lines and a casual atmosphere celebrates white and ivory shades. All air-conditioned rooms are comfortably appointed with white, minimalist furnishings and wooden floors. Double rooms have king-size beds. All rooms have a flat-screen satellite TV, mini-bar, safety deposit box, free WiFi, ceiling fan, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, balcony or terrace. All bathrooms have good walk-in rain shower and exclusive toiletries.
There is an outdoor pool surrounded by terraces with sunbeds, and Mimi’s bistro bar and lounge with a terrace right by the beach serving breakfast, drinks and an à la carte menu. There is no elevator at Tara’s Lodge.

VILLA DUBROVNIK - LUXURY HOTEL

Only a 15-minute walk away from Dubrovnik Old Town, Villa Dubrovnik, a luxurious 5-star hotel, stands on a rocky outcrop. Guests arrive from above, greeted by a discreet glass elevator that brings them down to reception. The hotel features a beach, two restaurants and a classy spa centre the indoor pool of which opens onto a deck terrace with sun loungers and parasols. There is a bio sauna, steam baths and a wide range of beauty and spa treatments available.
Rooms at Villa Dubrovnik exude a smart contemporary style highlighted by wood detailing, a neutral color palette and modern furnishings. Bathed in natural light, the interiors boast parquet in warm tones and terraces in gorgeous teak with streamlined outdoor chairs and loungers. The decor projects a chic nautical mood and is paired with stunning views of the Adriatic, Lokrum Island and Dubrovnik’s Old Town to make guests feel as if they are cruising at sea in stylish comfort.

*** Travel Matters – putovanja na šestu reserves the right to change any accommodation mentioned above. Accommodation can be substituted only by an accommodation of the same or a higher category. All additional costs due to changes will be covered by Travel Matters – putovanja na šestu.

OUR TOURS

Sightseeing Tours
Sightrunning Tours
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Excursions
Package Holidays
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About Us
Terms & Conditions
COVID-19 Travel & Booking Information

Contact

Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
info@travelmatters.hr

TRAVEL MATTERS putovanja na šestu

Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
Terms & Conditions
COVID-19 Travel & Booking Information

LEGAL INFO

MB: 97803677
OIB: 33044834575
IBAN: HR5024840081135050187
SWIFT: RZBHHR2X

Contact

Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
+33 6 19 75 60 08
info@travelmatters.hr

DESIGN WITH by Apropo marketing

The post 2 Islands coastal hikes in Croatia appeared first on Travel Matters.

4 Islands coastal hikes in Croatia

travelmatters — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 13:43:27 +0000

HIKING HOLIDAYS

BRAČ + HVAR + KORČULA + MLJET

4 Islands
coastal hikes in Croatia

Book now

When God got around to dividing up the Earth among all the peoples, he simply forgot about the Croats. Oops.

But not wanting to sound like a cheapskate, God finally gave them the piece of land he had reserved for himself.
If there is one trip that combines God-given hiking opportunities with time to reflect and make a more meaningful connection with the place you are in, it is this one! You’ll be involved with plenty of local interactions, you’ll sample culturally authentic experiences, you’ll enjoy locally grown food, you’ll absorb exceptionally beautiful nature, and as a result – you’ll re-energise yourself.

Book now



Type:
guided group trip

Package:
14 nights itinerary



Meeting Point:
Split Airport

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Price:
from 30.750,00 HRK (4100 EUR)

GUIDED GROUP TRIP
10 NIGHTS IN PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
4 NIGHTS IN LUXURY HOTELS
9 EXCEPTIONAL HIKES
LOCALLY GROWN FOOD
DIOCLETIAN’S PALACE
THE HIGHEST PEAK IN THE ADRIATIC ISLANDS
THE SUNNIEST ISLAND IN THE ADRIATIC
THE BIRTHPLACE OF MARCO POLO
MLJET NATIONAL PARK
THE REPUBLIC OF RAGUSA

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS
FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED

This trip starts with your arrival at Split Airport and finishes with your departure from Dubrovnik Airport. Please note that we offer pre- and post-trip optional extensions on all our hiking holidays.

DATES & PRICES

All dates are subject to availability.
All prices are per person.

Sat 15 May 2021 – Sat 29 May 2021
double occupancy 30.750,00 HRK (4100 €)
single room supplement 9.225,00 HRK (1230 €)

Sat 29 May 2021 – Sat 12 Jun 2021
double occupancy 32.250,00 HRK (4300 €)
single room supplement 10.575,00 HRK (1410 €)

Sat 12 Jun 2021 – Sat 26 Jun 2021
double occupancy 33.780,00 HRK (4504 €)
single room supplement 11.775,00 HRK (1570 €)

Sat 04 Sep 2021 – Sat 18 Sep 2021
double occupancy 33.780,00 HRK (4504 €)
single room supplement 11.775,00 HRK (1570 €)

Sat 18 Sep 2021 – Sat 02 Oct 2021
double occupancy 32.250,00 HRK (4300 €)
single room supplement 10.575,00 HRK (1410 €)

Sat 02 Oct 2021 – Sat 16 Oct 2021
double occupancy 30.750,00 HRK (4100 €)
single room supplement 9.225,00 HRK (1230 €)

ITINERARY

DAY 1
Please advise us of your flight schedule, and we will meet you at Split Airport. You need to arrive by 5.00 pm at the latest. Upon arrival, we’ll be transferred to the centre of Split, Croatia’s second largest city. Check into comfortable private accommodation. Welcome dinner.

DAY 2
Breakfast. Check out. A morning hike on the Marjan Peninsula, a forest-park known as ‘the lungs of Split’. We’ll hike to its highest peak which offers spectacular views out to the nearby islands and the surrounding mountains. On the way down, we’ll stop at a viewpoint with wide-ranging views over the city and harbour. After lunch in a local tavern, we’ll take a Split walking tour with a local guide. We’ll visit the underground chambers of Diocletian’s Palace and the Jupiter’s Temple. You’ll be amazed to discover the Peristyle, the central courtyard where Diocletian would have made his public appearances seventeen centuries ago, you’ll stroll along charming narrow streets and you’ll pass through the narrowest street in the world. Finally, you’ll walk along the large Riva, the main city promenade, a place to see and be seen. Later in the afternoon, we’ll catch a public ferry to Brač Island, followed by a short transfer by minibus to Pučišća, a seaside town on the northern shore of the island. After getting settled in a luxury heritage hotel, we’ll gather for a stonemason’s dinner.

DAY 3
After breakfast, we’ll be transferred to the village of Gažul from where we’ll start today’s hike to the top of Vidova Gora, the highest peak in the Adriatic Islands. The view takes in the whole of Hvar Island, with Vis Island, the Pelješac Peninsula and Biokovo Mountain filling the horizon. Lunch in a restaurant with a million dollar view. After lunch, we’ll hike down a rocky slope of Vidova Gora to reach the town of Bol. Wine tasting followed by a stroll in Bol and a visit to the Croatian modern art gallery. Transfer back to the hotel where the remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 4
After breakfast and check out, we’ll set off into the island’s rocky interior. Soon after we find ourselves in the middle of nowhere, a rocky dirt road will appear. The objective of our hike is the remote 16th-century monastery, in an extraordinary location, on the side of a rugged, isolated valley – Pustinja Blaca. It’s simply stunning! You’ll have the feeling that its peace and tranquility are almost palpable. After taking in the spectacular setting and visiting a former hermitage, we’ll continue downhill towards the southern shore. We’ll pass through a narrow gorge before reaching a shingle beach. From here, the trail takes us past delightful coves and their miniature beaches. Then, we’ll take a short transfer to the town of Bol where we’ll allow ourselves a stroll on Croatia’s most famous beach – Zlatni Rat. Lunch in a local tavern before boarding a catamaran ferry for a short transfer to our next island – Hvar. We’ll disembark in Jelsa, a fishing town built around a natural harbour. After checking into private accommodation, we’ll meet on the seafront promenade for our evening meal.

DAY 5
Breakfast. After a short transfer to Stari Grad, the island’s oldest settlement, we’ll take a morning hike northwest of the town. It’s an easy hike along wide tracks and woodland paths, offering amazing views of Stari Grad’s deep inlet, and beyond, Vidova Gora on Brač Island. We’ll make a loop passing the summit of Glavica on the way back to Stari Grad. Then we’ll wander through the narrow streets behind the harbour, stumbling across hidden gems like the Renaissance fortified mansion built by the local poet Petar Hektorović. After visiting an unusual residence, we’ll walk to the Stari Grad Plain, a large, fertile plain where the marks of the Greek parcelisation two and half thousand years ago are still visible. We’ll walk along paths that crisscross the rectangular plots of the plain. A homely lunch will be served in a tavern in the middle of the plain. After lunch, we’ll continue across the plain towards Vrboska, known as Little Venice. Situated at the very base of a deep bay, Vrboska is a quiet place with old houses reflecting in the water. We’ll stroll along fishing harbour in search of the fortified Church of St. Mary. Later in the afternoon, we’ll take a coastal walk back to Jelsa. The remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 6
After breakfast and check out, we’ll be transferred to the village of Svirče from where we’ll start our hike up to the highest peak of Hvar Island, Sveti Nikola (628 m). It’s a good two-hour ascent to the top. The route to the summit traverses olive groves, lavender fields, shady woodlands and, in the upper reaches, bare hillsides. At the top, you’ll be surprised by an extraordinarily wide-ranging view. The summit hosts a large cross and a small chapel in the vestibule of which we’ll take a break. After enjoying spectacular views, we’ll follow a wide track along the island’s east-west ridge, towards the village of Velo Grablje, and then Malo Grablje, the latter completely abandoned. Here, you’ll be far away from the tourist-favoured coast. After visiting Malo Grablje, we’ll descend to Milna, a seaside hamlet on the southern shore. Lunch in a restaurant close to the sea, followed by a short transfer to Hvar Town. Here, we’ll explore the main square Pjaca, bordered by the cathedral and the bishop’s palace, and wander through the Old Town, before catching a public catamaran ferry to Korčula Island. In the evening, we’ll arrive in Korčula Town on the eastern tip of the island. After checking into private accommodation, we’ll have dinner in a restaurant in the Old Town.

DAY 7
After breakfast, we take a short transfer to Žrnovo village from where we’ll start today’s circular hike to the jagged southeastern shore of Korčula Island. We’ll reach some of the most remote beaches on the island, before having lunch in a tavern that appears out of nowhere. Of course, you can jump into the sea and swim for as long as you want. In the afternoon, it’s a hike uphill amongst dense vegetation, and then transfer to an organic farm for honey tasting. We’ll meet a local beekeeper and learn about life in a beehive, the different jobs the bees are doing, how they make honey and why they are always as busy as a bee. Return to the hotel where you’ll have some free time. Then it’s a short transfer to a rustic tavern outside the town for a finger-licking good dinner.

DAY 8
Breakfast today is followed by a boat transfer across the channel from Korčula Town to Kučište, a small village on the Pelješac Peninsula. Here we’ll take a hike to the Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of the Angels. Most of the time, the walk is at an altitude of 150 metres with stunning panoramic views before it descends into Orebić, a town at the foot of Mount St. Elias. From Orebić, we’ll continue by boat to visit Korčula’s Archipelago. We’ll lunch in a restaurant on a small islet. Return to Korčula by boat for some traditional sweet pastries tasting. Free time. In the early evening, we’ll take a guided walking tour through the medieval streets of the Old Town which are laid out in a fishbone pattern. Dinner in the Old Town.

DAY 9
Breakfast today prepares us for a 30-minute transfer to Blato, an intriguing inland settlement where the streets have numbers instead of names. From here it’s a hike up to Kom Peak, the second highest peak on Korčula Island. From the top, you’ll get a 360° view of all the nearby islands. After a break, we’ll descend through the pine forest to Blato for lunch in a local tavern. After lunch we’ll visit the Barilo ethnographic museum where we’ll also do some tasting of local brandies. A short transfer to Smokvica village for Pošip wine tasting. Joyful, we’ll return to Korčula Town where the remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 10
We’ll check out after breakfast and board a catamaran ferry for a short transfer to our next island – Mljet. We’ll disembark in Pomena, a seaside hamlet at the western tip of the island. From here, we begin our first hike in the Mljet National Park. Our objective is to reach the Zakamenica viewpoint above the waves breaking on the rugged south coast. Further on, a charming view of St. Mary’s Islet will open up. We’ll descend to the shore of the Great Lake, take a boat and visit the Benedictine Monastery. Lunch in the restaurant on a serene islet. After lunch, we’ll take a boat to the Small Bridge for another short hike around the Small Lake. Here and there, the narrow shaded path almost touches the lake. The hike will end in Pomena. Time to check into private accommodation and tuck into a fisherman’s dinner.

DAY 11
After breakfast, we begin our hike in the direction of the village of Goveđari, the oldest village within the park. From here we’ll continue towards Veliki Gradac Hill and the Montokuc viewpoint. The view from Montokuc takes in the whole National Park. After taking a break, we’ll hike down a rocky path scented with sage plants. The path descends steeply to the Soline Straits. Lunch will be in a restaurant where the Great Lake meets the open sea. Suitably replenished, we’ll hike along the Lakes back to Pomena. In Pomena you’ll have some free time, followed by our evening meal.

DAY 12
Breakfast today prepares us for the last day in the Mljet National Park. We’ll start to hike from Pomena towards the northern shore of the island. Shortly, a view of surrounding islets will open up. The rocky path leads through Mediterranean undergrowth along the coast. A little further ahead, the path starts to climb, and after a magnificent view over the islet of Maslinovac, we’ll continue downhill scrambling over boulders. The final part of this hike will be on a flat, smooth path around an indented bay. We’ll arrive in Polače, a seaside hamlet with Roman ruins. After visiting the
remains of a fourth-century Roman palace, we’ll have lunch in a local tavern. In the afternoon, a short transfer takes us to the village of Babino Polje, in the middle of the island. From here, we’ll hike to the Odysseus Cave. The hike is steep with a lot of jagged rocks, but the place is impressive. Later, we’ll take a transfer back to Pomena, followed by some free time. Dinner.

DAY 13
Breakfast. Check out. Transfer by a public catamaran ferry to Dubrovnik, followed by a short transfer to the Old Town. Welcome to amazing Dubrovnik! Firstly, we’ll take a normal walking tour with a local guide, although nothing can be described as normal in Dubrovnik, and then, we’ll have lunch in a restaurant in the Old Town. Later in the afternoon, we’ll walk on the Dubrovnik Walls as if we’re walking on the roof of the world. Time for a short walk to the hotel for our final check in. The remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 14
Breakfast. Later in the morning, we’ll hike up Mount Srđ which towers above Dubrovnik as a natural rampart. From the top, a stunning view stretches as far as you can see. To descend, we’ll make a loop, and you’ll see the Old Town from several different angles. Our last lunch will be in an amazing restaurant in the Old Town. The remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

DAY 15
After breakfast, sadly, it’s time to check out and say our farewells. You will be transferred to Dubrovnik Airport where we will wish you a pleasant flight, and hope to see you again in the not-too-distant future. Cheerio!

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT TIMETABLE

DEPOSIT: 20% of the quoted price – at the time of booking
BALANCE DUE – 60 days before the date of your hiking trip

Minimum number of participants: 6 people
Maximum number of participants: 16 people

This trip includes the narrowest street in the world

Picture yourself standing in the middle of a street that is not wide enough to allow two people to go through it at the same time. It’s the narrowest street in the world, although it’s not officially a street, just a passageway. Whatever, we treat it as a street, and a street it is. It’s located in Split, bearing a lovely name ‘Pusti me proć’ – which could loosely be translated as ‘Let me pass’.

HIKING PACKAGE INCLUDES

• transfers from Split Airport and to Dubrovnik Airport, and all transfers in-between as in the itinerary
• accommodation for 10 nights in a private room or apartment
• accommodation for 4 nights in luxury hotels
• daily breakfast
• 13 lunches and 9 dinners in hand-picked restaurants and taverns
• honey tasting
• wine tasting on Brač Island
• wine tasting on Korčula Island
• traditional sweet pastries tasting
• entrance ticket to Diocletian’s Palace
• entrance ticket to the Jupiter’s Temple
• entrance ticket to the Branislav Dešković fine arts Gallery in Bol
• entrance ticket to the Hermitage Blaca Museum
• entrance ticket to the Hektorović’s Renaissance mansion – Tvrdalj
• entrance ticket to the Barilo ethnographic museum
• entrance ticket to the Mljet National Park
• private boat for the Korčula’s Archipelago visit
• local English-speaking hiking guide with you throughout the trip
• local English-speaking guide for the sightseeing tour in Split
• local English-speaking guide for the sightseeing tour in Korčula
• local English-speaking guide for the sightseeing tour in Dubrovnik

HIKING PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE

• flights or other transport from your home base to Split Airport, and from Dubrovnik Airport to your home base
• lunch on day 1 and day 15
• dinner on day 3, day 5, day 9, day 13, day 14 and day 15
• drinks with the included meals
• personal expenses
• travel insurance

There is no city like Split

You are going to love this trip from the outset. It starts in Split, the second largest city in Croatia, and the craziest city in the world – according to its residents. It’s a fascinating fact that Split started life as a Roman palace, even more fascinating – as the palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. The remains of a splendid third-century monumental palace, combining the features of an imperial villa and a garrison town, have been dotted down the centuries with Gothic and Renaissance buildings. In other words, a short stroll along Split’s narrow cobblestone streets will take you across seventeen centuries of history and art.
The city of Split is extraordinary from many aspects. For example, there’s no rush. Coffee matters. If you want to have coffee, please take your time. Venture to observe passersby. Make an effort to linger over a macchiato and read the newspaper. Feel what it’s like to be a local. Talk with passion about sport. Hajduk is a local football team. Its supporters are called Torcida, and they are the oldest organised supporters group in Europe. After coffee, walk up to the most famous city beach, Bačvice, and watch the sport invented by locals. It’s a water game called ‘picigin’. The players run in the sandy shallows and do all kinds of acrobatics to keep a peeled tennis ball in the air for as long as possible. You’ll see, they hit the ball as if their life depends on it. Curiously, there is no winner.

We have more than a thousand islands

The exact number is 1244, for we count everything that rises up from the sea: islands, islets, solitary rocks and reefs. On this hiking trip you will get to know four islands inside out: Brač, Hvar, Korčula and Mljet. They are markedly different each from other, although they have some colours in common: the radiantly white of limestone, the glittering green of Mediterranean undergrowth, and the shimmering blue of the Adriatic.
You’ll hike on footpaths full of peace and quiet, embracing unique moments and compelling seascapes. The footpaths vary from uneven rocky trails to smooth trails covered with pine needles. Sometimes the trails are exposed to sun. All hikes are graded ‘moderate’, so you should have some hiking experience and know what it is like to hike for up to six hours. You’ll hike a total of 148 kilometres, which are split over twelve days of hiking, with some days being a mere six kilometres and others being approximately sixteen kilometres. There are daily ascents and descents, with climbing time on the ascents ranging from about twenty minutes to two hours.
You’ll hike light, carrying only a daypack with what you need for the day. Lunches are organised in family-owned taverns, in the middle of amazing landscapes, or in charming restaurants with a story to tell. The great emphasis is placed on locally grown food, culinary specialities reflecting local history, and seafood dishes. Please advise us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Island of superlatives

Brač is the largest island in south Croatia, and the tallest of all the Croatian islands with its highest peak Vidova Gora that towers above Croatia’s most photographed beach – Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape). This pebbly beach probably adorns 80% of Croatia’s tourism posters. The beach extends like a tongue into the sea with its smooth white pebbles that have been rolling down from Vidova Gora for who knows how many thousands years. We’ll hike down the rocky slope of Vidova Gora to reach the pretty town of Bol and its renowned Zlatni Rat. But you shouldn’t judge by appearances. It’s more astounding than it looks – the elegant tip of the beach constantly shifts direction depending on the sea currents, tides and winds.
On Brač Island, we’ll take you to the top of Vidova Gora from where the entire Hvar Island seems to be spread out like a map. Then we’ll hike to an impressive monastery located literally into the cliff face of an isolated valley – Pustinja Blaca, originally a hermitage founded in the 16th century. Finally, you’ll drink wine made of stone, or nearly. Brač’s steep vineyards bask in sunshine hundreds of metres above sea level, springing up from dazzlingly white stone. Brač is famous for its high quality stone. The century-long tradition of stone masonry is best visible in the town of Pučišća that owes its beauty to the stone and to the people who carved their soul out of stone.

The islands the sun fell in love with

The sunniest place in Croatia is said to be Hvar Town on Hvar Island, which boasts of enjoying 2718 sunny hours a year. Korčula Town on Korčula Island has a modest 2565 hours of sunshine a year. That doesn’t mean that it won’t rain on your parade, but the chances of it are low. Anyway, if you want sun, you’ve got it!
The island of Hvar is not just the sunniest island, it’s also the longest and the most luxurious island in the Adriatic. On this trip, you’ll discover the lesser-know natural features of Hvar’s landscape, especially its limestone ridge running east-west along its centre with steep cliffs tumbling down towards isolated coves.
Mljet Island holds the reputation as Croatia’s greenest island. It’s densely forested, and that’s why the western third of the island is protected as a national park. Korčula Island has dark forests of holm oaks and pine trees as well, but it’s more famous as the birthplace od Marco Polo. Anyway, if you yearn for hiking on shaded paths, you’ve got it!
This trip ends in Croatia’s most popular tourist destination, and one of the world’s finest and best-preserved fortified cities – Dubrovnik. For centuries Dubrovnik was an autonomous and powerful republic, known as the Republic of Ragusa. The gargantuan walls enclose Dubrovnik Old Town, but the strenght of Dubrovnik never lay in its military architecture, but always in its political and diplomatic acumen…
Each day of this trip is a real joy which will stay with you way beyond your holidays.

DOWNLOAD YOUR HIKING HOLIDAY FULL ITINERARY here.

Six reasons why you should choose this trip

1. You’ll get to know 4 Adriatic Islands inside out. Their scenic footpaths, hidden beaches, timeless villages and traditions, along with a laid-back vibe and fabulous medieval towns, will sweep you off your feet. If hiking hasn’t already done it.
2. You can take a dip in the most beautiful sea in the world. And after it, you will never again want to swim anywhere else.
3. You’ll explore one of Croatia’s eight national parks. For the other seven, please come back some other time!
4. The food – you cannot rate it highly enough. As the saying goes, the way to love is through the stomach. And with our wines, it will go swimmingly.
5. Your local guides are passionate about what they do. They are knowledgeable, engaging, attentive, and funny. You can ask them everything. But not everything requires a response.
6. Last but not least, you’ll get to chase the sunrises and sunsets. Here, it’s like a wedding in which the sun and the sea get married.

Hotels of character you won’t want to leave

This trip combines hiking with high quality services and private accommodation. That means that you’ll meet local people offering a private room or apartment. Each private accommodation has been hand-picked for exceptional comfort and a warm welcome.
On Brač Island, in the coastal town of Pučišća, as well in the city of Dubrovnik, at the end of the trip, you’ll stay in outstanding hotels with a story to tell. And retell.

TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR HOTELS >>

PUTEUS PALACE - LUXURY HERITAGE HOTEL

The Puteus Palace is located in the coastal town of Pučišća, on the north coast of Brač Island. The oldest part of the palace dates from 1467, while the rest of the building was built in the 17th and 18th centuries. The palace has been carefully renovated to create a magnificent 15-room heritage hotel with calming harbour views. In the middle of the palace lies its outstanding feature – a walled garden terraced on three levels where you’ll find the open-air Puteus Restaurant, with tables set on a wooden deck, and at the bottom, a large outdoor pool. The hotel also features a little spa offering Jacuzzi and Finnish sauna. A hearty buffet breakfast is displayed in the dining room, below an impressive stone archway and a wooden-beamed ceiling.
There is an elevator at the Puteus Palace. Rooms are spread over the two upper floors with windows overlooking Pučišća’s harbour. The windows have a traditional wooden shutters. The fabric of the palace exudes stone-inspired shades of cream, beige and grey. The dominant materials include velvet ans silk, suggesting centuries-old luxury. All rooms feature a king size bed, bathrobe, flat-screen satellite TV, mini-bar, safety deposit box, free WiFi, tea and coffee making facilities. Bathrooms have old stone floors, either a bathtube or walk-in shower, hairdryer and exclusive toiletries.

VILLA DUBROVNIK - LUXURY HOTEL

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Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
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LEGAL INFO

MB: 97803677
OIB: 33044834575
IBAN: HR5024840081135050187
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+385 98 175 77 16
+33 6 19 75 60 08
info@travelmatters.hr

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About Mljet

travelmatters — Sat, 21 Apr 2018 22:11:20 +0000

THE GREEN PEARL OF THE CROATIAN ADRIATIC ISLANDS

Mljet

Korčula is a stunning medieval town, situated on the island of the same name.

The tiny Old Town sits on a limestone promontory straight out of a fairy tale. In times past, the Old Town was encircled by high limestone walls. Today you can walk on their remains – there is a promenade that goes all around the Old Town, and you can make a full circle in fifteen minutes. If you really are slow. Since you’re already here, take a look at the well-preserved towers that still today look out for danger coming from the sea.

For centuries Korčula was controlled by Venice, as was almost all of Dalmatia. The end of the Venetian territory was in fact to be found here – the Old Town was the last Venetian stronghold. If you are still strolling on that promenade, you can see the mainland a stone’s throw away – just opposite the Old Town. On the other side, there is the Pelješac Peninsula that once formed part of the Dubrovnik Republic. The channel between the Pelješac Peninsula and Korčula Island was all that geographically separated the two Republics – Venice and Dubrovnik. But nobody can see the border there! We are all watching the windsurfers! Today the channel is famous for windsurfing – thanks to the wind called the maestral. This same wind will save you from the summer heat. It starts to blow at noon on the dot. Yes, of course, sometimes it’s a little bit late…

Korčula’s golden age was the 15th and the early 16th centuries, when most of its palaces and main buildings were constructed. St. Marc’s Cathedral is a masterpiece from that period. Everywhere you look, you’ll find limestone carvings – above doors, all around windows, on columns and balconies… You’re in the cradle of stone masonry. In Korčula, Gothic-Renaissance is omnipresent…

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Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
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FAQ – Green, Blue & From Above

travelmatters — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 09:16:31 +0000

SIGHTRUNNING TOUR

FAQ
Green, Blue & From Above

Book now

Dear Guest, in case you have some questions regarding our sightrunning tours, we have prepared a list of some of the mostly frequently asked ones with answers.

However, if you have a question we have not covered, please feel free to contact us.

DO I HAVE TO BOOK IN ADVANCE?
Yes, we ask for at least 48 hours notice for our running tours. We have to check the availability of one of our tour guides and we have to arrange all the tour details. Please contact us as soon as possible.

WHERE DO I MEET WITH THE GUIDE?
If your accommodation is close to our running route, we meet you at your hotel or apartment address in Dubrovnik. The guide will then wait at the agreed start time in front of the hotel or apartment building main entrance. It is therefore very important that you provide us with your accommodation’s address when you’re making your tour reservation. We will check then if your accommodation is close to our running route, or not. If not, we will meet you at the agreed meeting point – the Dubrovnik Bridge.

HOW CAN I RECOGNIZE THE GUIDE?
Easily – besides their running shoes, he/she will be wearing a Travel Matters – putovanja na šestu T-Shirt.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO STORE BAGS AT THE STARTING POINT?
Yes, it’s possible for our running tours. We have a place where you can leave your bags whilst running.

CAN YOU CANCEL IF IT RAINS?
We don’t cancel if it rains. It’s only water after all. But in case of extremely strong wind, we may cancel for safety reasons.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
The climate in Dubrovnik is mild. You can run all year long. In winter the temperature is rarely below 10°C. There’s no snow, or if the snow falls, it lasts for five minutes, and we call it a miracle.

It’s always better to check the forecast or ask the guide the day before the run.

From May to October, we recommend sunscreen and a hat.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO TAKE PICTURES ALONG THE RUN?
Yes, of course. Bring your camera or mobile phone.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO ADAPT THE TOUR ACCORDING TO MY FITNESS LEVEL OR INTERESTS?
Yes, of course. Please notify us of all your needs.

IS THERE A TOILET STOP DURING THE TOUR?
Yes, of course. If you need a toilet stop, just ask your guide.

IS THE ADMISSION TICKET FOR THE CITY WALLS INCLUDED?
Yes, the admission ticket for the City Walls is included for this running tour. You can also visit the St. Lawrence Fortress using the same ticket.

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Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
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Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
info@travelmatters.hr

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FAQ – Running The Dubrovnik Old Town

travelmatters — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 09:03:23 +0000

SIGHTRUNNING TOUR

FAQ
Running Dubrovnik Old Town

Book now

Dear Guest, in case you have some questions regarding our sightrunning tours, we have prepared a list of some of the mostly frequently asked ones with answers.

However, if you have a question we have not covered, please feel free to contact us.

HOW CAN I RECOGNIZE THE GUIDE?
Easily – besides their running shoes, he/she will be wearing a Travel Matters – putovanja na šestu T-Shirt.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO STORE BAGS AT THE STARTING POINT?
Yes, it’s possible for our running tours. We have a place where you can leave your bags whilst running.

CAN YOU CANCEL IF IT RAINS?
We don’t cancel if it rains. It’s only water after all. But in case of extremely strong wind, we may cancel for safety reasons.

It’s always better to check the forecast or ask the guide the day before the run.

From May to October, we recommend sunscreen and a hat.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO TAKE PICTURES ALONG THE RUN?
Yes, of course. Bring your camera or mobile phone.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO ADAPT THE TOUR ACCORDING TO MY FITNESS LEVEL OR INTERESTS?
Yes, of course. Please notify us of all your needs.

IS THERE A TOILET STOP DURING THE TOUR?
Yes, of course. If you need a toilet stop, just ask your guide.

IS THE ADMISSION TICKET FOR THE CITY WALLS INCLUDED?
Only for the running tour ‘Green, Blue, and from Above’.

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Tina Andrijić
+385 98 175 77 16
info@travelmatters.hr

TRAVEL MATTERS putovanja na šestu

Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
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MB: 97803677
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Tina Andrijić
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About Korčula

travelmatters — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:45:55 +0000

THE MARCO POLO’S BIRTHPLACE

Korčula

Korčula is a stunning medieval town, situated on the island of the same name.

Korčula’s golden age was the 15th and the early 16th centuries, when most of its palaces and main buildings were constructed. St. Mark’s Cathedral is a masterpiece from that period. Everywhere you look, you’ll find limestone carvings – above doors, all around windows, on columns and balconies… You’re in the cradle of stone masonry. In Korčula, Gothic-Renaissance is omnipresent…

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Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
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MB: 97803677
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About Ston

travelmatters — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:33:27 +0000

THE CITY OF STONE & SALT

Ston

Ston is famous for its great fortifying walls bearing the nickname the European Great Wall of China.

Ston is a tiny town at the head of the Pelješac Peninsula, one hour’s car drive from Dubrovnik. The Ston Walls were built in the 14th and 15th centuries to defend both the northern borders of the Dubrovnik Republic, and the salt marshes, still in use today. Salt was once a precious commodity, and thanks to the salt trade, the Dubrovnik Republic continued to grow and flourish.

The present-day Ston was founded in the 14th century when the Dubrovnik Republic took control of the Pelješac Peninsula. But Ston had existed before that! The early settlement of Ston was located in the fertile valley nearby, the remains of many early Christian churches bearing witness to this. In other words, with the arrival of the Dubrovnik Republic, Ston, and its population, moved house.

The Dubrovnik Republic built a new Ston at the foot of the southern slope of the Pozvizd Hill, and Mali Ston (literally the Small Ston) at the foot of the northern slope of the same hill. Lying on opposite sides of the hill, and also on opposite sides of the Pelješac isthmus, the two settlements are connected by the Big Wall, controlling land access onto Pelješac.

Today Mali Ston is famous for oyster and mussel farming. The long narrow Mali Ston Bay, between the mainland and the peninsula, contains a mix of salt and fresh water, and together with strong currents and tides, this is ideal for cultivating the ostrea edulis, a high quality oyster, extinct in other areas. Of course, the best months to visit Mali Ston are those which have an R in them.

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About Dubrovnik

travelmatters — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:08:21 +0000

THE PEARL OF THE ADRIATIC

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is an incredible city – harmonious, graceful, elegant, sophisticated, dignified and proud.

Whilst walking through the Old Town, you will have the feeling that suddenly the grandeur of Dubrovnik’s past has filled your heart.

For centuries Dubrovnik was an autonomous and powerful republic, known as the Republic of Ragusa. The Republic was remarkably ahead of its time: the first pharmacy opened in 1317, slave trading was abolished in 1418, and an orphanage was founded in 1432. The gargantuan walls enclose the Old Town, but the strength of Dubrovnik never lay in its military architecture and might, but always in its political and diplomatic acumen.

Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most stunning destinations – there is so much to explore, and so little time. With our sightseeing tours, you will get to know Dubrovnik inside out, you will see what others don’t see, and you will feel like you’ve been living in Dubrovnik for years.

Protected by Mount St. Srđ, with a peak of 412 metres, and jutting out into the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a perfect place to enjoy life to the full. In this human-sized city, the air is so pure, the sea is unbelievably clear, there’s no heavy traffic – every day in Dubrovnik is a real joy which will stay with you way beyond your holidays.

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Cvjetno naselje 44
20260 Korčula, CROATIA
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MB: 97803677
OIB: 33044834575
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Travel Matters

Korčula Island ‘What’s life if not a fantasy’

Korčula Islandwhat’s life if not a fantasy

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Mljet Island ‘The return to paradise’

Mljet Islandthe return to paradise

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2 Islands coastal hikes in Croatia

2 Islandscoastal hikes in Croatia

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TARA'S LODGE - BOUTIQUE HOTEL

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4 Islands coastal hikes in Croatia

4 Islands coastal hikes in Croatia

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About Mljet

Mljet

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FAQ – Green, Blue & From Above

FAQ Green, Blue & From Above

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FAQ – Running The Dubrovnik Old Town

FAQ Running Dubrovnik Old Town

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Korčula Island
what’s life if not a fantasy

Mljet Island
the return to paradise

2 Islands
coastal hikes in Croatia

4 Islands
coastal hikes in Croatia

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Green, Blue & From Above

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Running Dubrovnik Old Town